ESPN's Field Yates is reporting the New England Patriots have released TE Martellus Bennett. (Field Yates on Twitter)

Fantasy Impact:

In a short period following Michael Bennett's trade to the Eagles, the Patriots have released his brother, Martellus. I'm a bit surprised by Bennett's release. Not only is Rob Gronkowski's future in New England uncertain -- while he has toyed with the idea of retirement, I fully believe he'll return at least for 2018 -- the elite tight end is an injury risk. And while Bennett is coming off multiple injuries, he was the next best tight end on the Patriots roster in terms of reliability. Let's face it, Dwayne Allen's acquisition last offseason was a bust to say the least. As a result of moving on from Bennett, the Patriots are in the tight end market this offseason. With the Seahawks expected to move on from Jimmy Graham, it wouldn't surprise me if he landed in New England. But if they don't land Graham, expect them to pursue players like Trey Burton in free agency or even Eric Ebron via trade.